Janelle Monae: ‘People Have To Start Respecting The Vagina’

Janelle Monae speaks for all of us when she voices her frustrations at the continual lack of equality and disrespect women face on a daily basis. And she’s not afraid to do so.

In an interview in the May issue of Marie Claire, the Oscar-nominated actress and musician makes our demands very clear – and even clearer, what might happen if they fail to be met.

“People have to start respecting the vagina,” Monáe said. “Until every man is fighting for our rights, we should consider stopping having sex. I love men. But evil men? I will not tolerate that. You don’t deserve to be in my presence. If you’re going to rule this world, I am not going to contribute anymore until you change it.”

Quite how one goes about not contributing to the world is unclear. However, she later clarified that her statement wasn’t intended to be taken as literally. “I don’t think that, but I do get frustrated when women’s rights are trampled on and disregarded. And we must demand our agency,” she tweeted.

“Sometimes you give interviews right after the ‘leader of the free world’ has a meeting to discuss women’s issues with a room full of men… and it’s very frustrating. But no, I don’t think sex is a bargaining tool… I just wonder how these people got born and raised. Then I remember that choosing a partner for a co-parent is important. Because those values are passed down generations. Sexist to Sexist.” Elsewhere in the interview, she discusses the importance of racial empowerment, as well as gender.

“We have to realize our power and our magic,” Monae continued. “Because I am all about black-girl magic, even though I’m standing with all women. But this year? This year, I am so carefree black girl.”

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